Used-EV buyer's checklist (Ireland)
Contents
Use this when you go to view a used electric car. It is ordered so the things that make or break the deal come first, and it keeps you focused on what is different about an EV rather than the usual used-car routine. Start by building a shortlist of used electric cars - popular first EVs like the Nissan Leaf are a sensible place to begin. For the background on each point, the buying a used EV in Ireland guide goes deeper.
Before you travel
- Confirm the car's battery state of health (SoH) is shown, ideally with a Verified SoH badge.
- Check the real-world range covers your daily distance with a winter margin.
- Note the charging connector and speed, and whether your home or street can support charging.
- Read the listing for service history, owners and any accident mention.
At the car: battery and range
- Read the measured SoH yourself if you can, or confirm the verified figure.
- Compare that SoH against other cars of the same model and age.
- On models with a capacity gauge, check it matches the claimed health.
- Look at the range remaining at the stated charge level and sense-check it against the real-world estimate.
At the car: condition and charging
- Inspect tyres, brakes and bodywork as you would on any used car.
- Ask to see the car charge, and check both the home (AC) and rapid (DC) charging if possible.
- Confirm the charging cables are present (a Type 2 cable at minimum).
- Check the infotainment, driver aids and climate control all work.
Paperwork
- Confirm the documentation matches the car and the seller.
- Check the service record is genuine and complete.
- Verify there is no outstanding finance on the car.
- Make sure any in-car software accounts can be transferred or reset to you.
| Priority | Check | Pass looks like |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Battery state of health | Strong for the age, ideally verified |
| 2 | Real-world range | Covers your day with a winter margin |
| 3 | Charging | Right connector and speed, cables present |
| 4 | History and paperwork | Genuine, complete, finance clear |
After the test drive
Sit with the numbers before you commit. A car with a strong, verified battery and a realistic range that suits you is worth more than a younger car with an unverified, weaker battery. If the SoH sits below comparable cars, use it to negotiate or move on.
For how to read whether a SoH figure is good, see what SoH percentage is good on a used EV. For the measuring method, see how to check battery SoH before you buy.